Sucralose is an artificial sweetener that tastes 600 times sweeter than table sugar, or sucrose. This sugar alternative is derived from sucrose. The highlight of sucralose is its zero caloric value. It is recognized as safe to consume by diabetic patients, and does not promote dental cavities. Over the years it has taken the place of other sugar substitutes including aspartame and high-fructose corn syrup. It can be found on labels of over 4,500 food and beverage products.

Its production process includes selective chloination of three hydroxyl groups for the sucrose molecule. First the primary alcohol groups are primed for protection before acetylation. One of the hydroxyl groups undergoes acetyl migration after deprotection of the reacted alcohol groups. Finally chlorination occurs with a chlorinating agent and the acetyl groups are removed to produce sucralose. Decomposition of pure sucralose occurs when weathered in elevated temperatures, but stability can be achieved when blended with maltodextrin or in solution.

Only a small amount of sucralose is required for products to obtain a sweetened effect. The use of sucralose will include bulking with other ingredients such as glucose or maltodextrin to balance the sweetness to volume ration similar to sucrose. A desired property of sucralose is its high stability to heat, making it a favorable ingredient for recipes that promote low to no sugar content. However, unlike regular sugar which appears clear upon dissolving in water, granular sucralose becomes cloudy. This will alter the physical appearance and texture of finished products substituted with sucralose. Due to its non-hydroscopic property, sucralose can also leave foods dry and less dense compared to the use of regular sugar.

Over 100 clinical studies have been conducted on humans and animals to determine the safety of sucralose. No toxicity effects, including neurological, reproductive, and carcinogenic, result from the use of sucralose. It is classified as a safe to use synthetic sweetener. Because of its low absorption in the bloodstream, the body will eliminate it either as fecal matter or urine. An estimated acceptable daily intake (ADI) for sucralose is 15 mg for each kilogram of body weight.